I have a degree in psychology and a post graduate diploma in human resources. In my view my psychology degree was a waste of money. The post-graduate diploma in human resources is the qualification that helped me to get to where I am now, but I think mostly my success has stemmed from my willingness to start at the bottom and work my way up.

I see this same thing over and over again, people who are very successful in getting good jobs because they have entered a company at the bottom of the ladder and worked hard to work their way up. This includes with people who have no qualifications. Often it is more who you know and the networks you have than what you know.

If I had my time again, with the benefit of hindsight, I would not have spent my own money on study. I would have busted my butt to get an entry level job with a large employer, stuck with them, worked hard and worked my way up, then let my employer pay for my study for me, because most large employers will pay for full or part of your study costs if you study something relevant to their business.

In saying this, I now have a fantastic job with New Zealand's biggest employer, and get to live in and travel over the most beautiful part of New Zealand, Nelson and Golden Bay, and for that I am truly grateful!